Best Aquarium Lights

by Kate Barrington

Published: June 21st, 2021

Lights… cameras… action! Put a spotlight on your tank with the right lighting. Here are our picks for the best aquarium lights.

When it comes to equipping a home aquarium, the focus is often placed on essentials like aquarium filtration and heating. After all, these tools are necessary to maintain high water quality in your tank and to keep the conditions stable for your aquarium fish. Lighting is an important but easily overlooked aspect of keeping a home aquarium. It may not be absolutely essential if you’re only keeping fish in your tank, but it’s a necessity if you have a planted tank or reef tank. The type of lighting you need depends on the type of tank you cultivate and on your tank inhabitants.

In this article, we’ll take a quick look at the different types of aquarium lighting systems and how to choose the best option for your tank. You’ll also see our top picks for the best aquarium lights.

Best Aquarium Lights

There are a wide variety of options when it comes to aquarium lighting, so you’ll need to do your own research to determine the best fit for your particular tank. To help you get an idea what the options are, however, we’ve assembled a list of products popular among aquarium hobbyists.

Here are our top picks for the best aquarium lights:

1. Editor’s Pick: NICREW Classic LED Aquarium Light

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If you’re looking for bright but energy efficient aquarium lighting, this LED light is perfect. It comes in five different sizes and includes both white and blue LEDs for daylight and night lighting. It also comes with adjustable metal brackets for installation.

2. Runner Up: Aquaneat Aquarium LED Light

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Keep your tank illuminated day and night with this LED lighting system. It features super-bright, energy-efficient LEDs in both white and blue for shimmering daytime light and a gentle nighttime glow that won’t irritate nocturnal tank inhabitants.

3. Best for freshwater: Hygger Full Spectrum Aquarium Light

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This LED lighting system is ideal for freshwater tanks and can be used in low-to-mid light level planted tanks as well. It comes with adjustable metal mounting brackets and an external controller. Choose from 3 light color modes and adjust the brightness from 10% to 100% according to your needs.

4. Best Clip Light: Lominie LED Aquarium Clip Light

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If you simply want to spotlight an area of your tank or you’re looking for an energy efficient option for a smaller tank, this clip light is great. It features 360-degree adjustable gooseneck and a sturdy clamp that won’t damage glass.

5. Best Topper: All Glass Aquariums Fluorescent Strip Light

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This strip light is the perfect topper for a standard freshwater or planted aquarium. It fits into a 24-inch hood and comes with the bulb you need to get started. This lighting system features internally mounted ballasts and instant-start circuits that operate on a timer or switch-controlled outlet.

6. Best Tube Light: Eiko T8 Cool Fluorescent Tube Light

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If you’re looking for lighting that’s a little bit stronger than standard fluorescent, T8 could be the way to go. It only uses 15 wats of energy and produces a cool white color with a generous 7,500 hour average lifespan.

7. Best Halide Bulb: Phoenix Electric Company Metal Halide Bulb

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Reef tanks have unique lighting requirements and metal halide lighting is often required. This metal halide bulb delivers the optimal combination of color and PAR, creating crisp white light with a blue tint perfect for your reef tank.

8. Best Light with Timer

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VIPARSPECTRA Timer Control Series V165 LED Aquarium Light

Fully adjustable and versatile, VIPARSPECTRA Timer Control Series V165 LED Aquarium Light is specially engineered to make your aquarium’s flora and fauna thrive. This powerful LED light boasts a full spectrum that mimics natural light and is dimmable so you can fully control the type and the amount of light in your fish tank. It also has a built-in timer and two channels so that the brightness can be adjusted from 0% to 100% separately. Even though this is a powerful setup (available in 165w and 300w), this aquarium light won’t disrupt the temperature in your aquarium: it has high-speed quiet fans and upgraded aluminum heat sinks to make sure that the warmth is dissipated away and doesn’t heat up the water. Thanks to its unique layout and features, this aquarium light is suitable for all photosynthetic corals, as well.

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9. Best Hood: Tetra LED Aquarium Hood

For something quick, efficient, and easy to use, try this LED low-profile aquarium hood. It contains built-in LEDs and a low-profile design with cutouts on the back to accommodate your filter and other aquarium equipment.

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10. Best Daylight Glow: Finnex FugeRay Planted+ Aquarium LED Light

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To give your planted tank a boost of extra light, consider this LED clip light. It features red, blue, and white LEDs to deliver a stunning daylight effect and gentle moonlight glow while supporting plant growth.

Tips for Choosing Aquarium Lights

The most important thing to remember when it comes to choosing lighting for your aquarium is that there is more than one correct option. When considering your options, you should know whether the lighting will serve a functional or an aesthetic purpose. In fish-only tanks, lighting shows off the tank and your fish. With a planted tank or reef tank, it provides the energy photosynthetic organisms need to thrive. Think about the type of tank you plan to cultivate before you choose a lighting system.

Here are some tips for choosing the best aquarium lighting:

Think about the preferences of your tank inhabitants – most aquarium fish are used to natural sunlight, but nocturnal species will need a place to hide during the day.
Consider the needs of live plants – heavily planted tanks will require stronger lighting than a fish-only tank and the bulbs may need to be replaced more often.
Look at options for day and night lighting – using LEDs for illumination at night can help you enjoy your tank at all hours without disturbing your fish.
Think about how much energy the lighting consumes and how much heat it puts out – high-powered lighting may require an auxiliary fan or chiller.
Choose full-spectrum lighting – if you’re lighting a planted tank or you want to make your fish look their best, choose lighting that mimics the effects of natural sunlight.

Aquarium lighting serves a practical purpose in illuminating your tank to ensure that it looks its best. If you’re growing live plants, it’s even more important because it provides the energy your plants need to thrive. Whether you’re shopping for decorative lighting or functional lighting, it’s important to consider the options.

Can a fish tank light be too bright?

Fish need a lot of light to stay healthy and thrive in a fish tank and it would be difficult to get a light that’s too bright for them (as long as you are using special aquarium lights, which is recommended). Some fish prefer less bright lights, but even so, after a while they will get used to it. What’s important is to establish a routine with lightning so they could get accustomed to the brightness and settle into their new environment.

Additional Resources:

Best LED Aquarium Lighting Systems

Understanding the Basics of Freshwater Aquarium Lighting

4 Best Types of Lighting Systems for Planted Aquariums

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Kate Barrington

Kate Barrington is the loving owner of two cats (Bagel and Munchkin) and a noisy herd of guinea pigs. Having grown up with golden retrievers, Kate has a great deal of experience with dogs but labels herself a lover of all pets. Having received a Bachelor's degree in English, Kate has combined her love for pets and her passion for writing to create her own freelance writing business, specializing in the pet niche.

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Best Aquarium Cleaners

Your stunning aquarium will only stay beautiful if you put in effort into regular and meticulous maintenance. Not only that keeping your fish tank clean will ensure it always looks spotless and fabulous, but it will also ensure the fish and plant life in it are healthy and happy. However, when it comes to cleaning aquariums, it’s not as easy as taking a dish sponge and scrubbing away. It’s a thorough process that requires the right tools and supplies – without them, you won’t be able to get your fish tank looking spic and span. Additionally, not all products are safe for the fauna and flora inhabiting the tank: you have to use safe aquarium cleaners to get the job done without endangering the tank’s inhabitants. While the process of carefully cleaning your fish tank might seem daunting or cumbersome, you shouldn’t let it overwhelm you. PetGuide.com’s resources on aquarium cleaners will help you choose the best and most efficient fish tank cleaning supplies, and our experts will guide you through the process, ensuring that no spot goes unmissed. In addition, we have some insider tips and tricks on minimizing the need for maintenance in the first place, by taking necessary preventative steps. Top 5 Best Aquarium Cleaners Aquarium Cleaner Features Available At TERA PUMP Aquarium Cleaner (model: TRFTCLN)

Top 8 Best Aquarium Plants for Beginners

Welcome to the wonderful world of planted tanks! If you’re just getting started, we’ve gathered a list of eight aquarium plants that are great for beginners. If you are thinking about starting a planted tank but don’t know where to begin, take the time to do a little research. Many aquarium plants are hardy enough to withstand changes in water chemistry as you get used to maintaining a planted tank, but some are better than others. If you are new to the planted tank, consider some of the aquarium plant species discussed below. Top Aquatic Plants for Beginners Some aquatic plants will thrive in just about any conditions and those are the species that are best for beginners. While you are still figuring out how to maintain stable conditions in a planted tank you want to be sure that your plants won’t die out. If you stock your aquarium with hardy and resilient plant species, this will be less of an issue. You will find an overview of the best aquarium plants for beginners below: Amazon Sword: The Amazon Sword plant is by far the most popular choice for planted tanks, largely because it is so easy to grow. This plant only requires moderate lighting and it grows fairly quickly, providing background decoration as well as hiding places for timid fish. Amazon Sword plants can grow up to 20 inches long, producing long sword-like leaves in thick bunches. Related: Let’s Talk About Amazon Sword Plants Java Moss: If you are looking for a plant to use on the bottom of your planted tank, you can’t do better than Java moss. This plant is a fast-growing moss that does well when rooted in substrate or attached to driftwood. Java moss is very low-maintenance and it does well in all types of lighting. Not only does Java moss provide cover for baby fish, but it can also be a secondary food source. Anubias Nana: This aquatic plant is a great mid-ground plant because it only grows to be about 6 inches tall. Anubias nana produces oval-shaped leaves that are dark green in color. This plant requires only moderate lighting and it can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. Java Fern: Another excellent choice for low-maintenance aquatic plants is the Java fern. This plant produces long, bright green leaves that grow in thick bunches and it can be used in any area of the tank. Java fern grows very well in low to moderate lighting and it can tolerate temperatures as low as 68°F or as high as 82°F which makes it great for beginners. Related: How to Use Aquatic Mosses in Your Planted Tank Lilaeopsis: This plant only grows to about 2 inches tall but it spreads very quickly which makes it popular as a carpet plant. Lilaeopsis produces green grass-like leaves and it can be used as floor covering for your tank. This plant only requires moderate lighting and it grows well in a wide temperature range. African Water Fern: The African water fern does well as both a background and a foreground plant because it grows in very thick. This plant does well in low lighting or shade and it produces lush, feathery green leaves. African water fern thrives in most tank conditions and it is very low-maintenance. Water Wisteria: If you need a plant that grows quickly and requires very little maintenance, water wisteria is the way to go. This plant produces lace-like leaves and it grows well in moderate lighting – it also does well in a wide temperature range.Green Tiger Lotus: If you are looking for an aquatic plant with a unique appearance, Green Tiger Lotus is a great choice. This plant produces wide leaves that are primarily green in color with spots of red. Green Tiger Lotus does well in moderate lighting and it is a great background plant. Learning how to cultivate and maintain a thriving planted tank takes time. Not only do you have to be intentional about the substrate you choose and the water chemistry you maintain, but you also have to be careful which plant species you choose to grow. If you are new to the aquarium hobby or if you are starting your first planted tank, consider using some of the species discussed above.

Putting Your Best Fin Forward at Aquarium Fish Shows

We’ve all heard of dog shows… but what about fish shows? All levels of aquarium hobbyists will want to attend one of these events to see the brightest and best fish strut their stuff! Dog shows are a huge event; just watch Westminster Kennel Club’s televised even and you’d think that each breed has its own cheering section! Would it surprise you to learn that fish people get this excited for their pet of choice? There are many fish shows around the world that people flock to in order to get a gander at the finest specimens in aquatics. Some are held by local aquarium clubs that covers different aspects of freshwater and saltwater aquariums, including fish, invertebrates, and plants. Here’s a few of things you can expect at an aquarium fish show: Being Judged Just like in a dog show, there are judges who look at each fish and compare it to the standard for that species. They are looking at the overall anatomy of each entry for fin shape, patterns, scales, size, and length. There’s also a personality portion of the contest, where judges determine the personality of the fish, to see if it is acting like a typical fish of that type should. Judges also exam the fish’s coloring, to ensure it falls within the standards set. You can see how similar it is to how a dog show is judged… minus parading around the floor. Related: PPG Aquarium in Pittsburgh, PA Show Type Some shows are specifically for certain types of fish, such as Bettas or cichlids. And just like a dog show, these fish are broken down into groups, where the best from each category is judged moves on to a Best in Show finale. Mail-in Entry There are a few key differences when it comes to fish shows. One big difference is that in some circumstances, fish are mailed to the location of the show without its keeper to be returned after the show is completed, or if the keeper opts for it, to be auctioned off. Related: The Ins and Outs of Shipping and Receiving Fish Talent Portion Ha – just kidding! Imagine if there really was a talent portion of the fish show. “My fish’s talent is blowing bubbles and swimming from one side of the tank to the other!” But you know what would be cute? Fish bikini contests for the swimsuit competition! Best in Show Prizes can range from ribbons to trophies, and of course, bragging rights. There are often expert speakers and educators at the event who will offer advice on how to better the standards of care, and help breeders raise the healthiest fish possible. If you have a question about aquarium fish, this is the place to find the right answers. Fish shows are a must-attend event for any aquarium hobbyist. Many are free to attend and make a great outing for the family. All it takes is one fish show for someone to get hooked on aquariums for life!

4 Best Types of Lighting Systems for Planted Aquariums

The right lights on your aquarium can not only make your tank shine, but it’s also necessary component for plants to thrive. When it comes to cultivating a thriving planted aquarium, what is the most important requirement? Lighting. Without adequate lighting, your aquarium plants will not have the energy they need to grow. Choosing the right lighting for your planted tank can be tricky, however, since there are so many options to choose from. In this article you will learn about the best lighting systems for planted tanks and you will receive some tips for making your choice. Related: Watts Going On With Your Aquarium Lighting? How Much Light do Plants Need? Without light, the live tanks in your plant will not only fail to thrive, but they will slowly die off. Light is a form of energy for plants and they use it to power the process of photosynthesis through which they convert carbon dioxide absorbed through the leaves into simple sugars – oxygen is a byproduct of this process. Although lighting is very important for live plants, there is such a thing as too much lighting. You should only plan to leave your aquarium lights on for 10 to 12 hours per day. If you leave the lights on for too long it could cause excess algae to grow and the algae will start competing with your plants for nutrients. Your best bet is to place your lighting system on an automatic timer so it will turn your lights on and off at the right intervals. Related: Can You Sustain a Planted Tank Without a Filter? Best Planted Tank Lighting Systems There are many different options to choose from when it comes to lighting for the planted tank. Below you will find an overview of some of the most popular planted tank lighting systems: Compact Fluorescent: As an alternative to standard fluorescent lighting, compact fluorescents offer greater intensity and higher wattages. Compact fluorescent bulbs are smaller than standard fluorescents but they come in wattages between 10 and 130 – they also have a longer lifespan of up to 28 months. This type of lighting is ideal for freshwater planted tanks, though you may need an aquarium chiller or auxiliary fan to prevent the tank from overheating because these lights produce a lot of heat. T-5 High Output: Also known as T-5 HO lighting, T-5 high output lighting is another type of fluorescent lighting system. This type of lighting produces high-intensity light and the bulbs are even more compact than compact fluorescents. T-5 HO lighting comes in wattages from 24 to 54 and the bulbs can last for 2 years. This type of lighting is best for freshwater planted tanks under 24 inches deep. Very High Output: Also known as VHO, this type of lighting comes in wattages between 75 and 165 and they can last as long as 18 months. These bulbs are perfect for larger planted tanks, though they do produce a lot of heat so you may need to use an auxiliary fan or aquarium chiller to keep the tank from overheating. Metal Halide: This type of lighting system is one of the most powerful options available and it is preferable for freshwater planted tanks more than 24 inches deep. Metal halide lighting system offer wattages up to 1000 and it is high-intensity, wide-spectrum lighting. Bulbs can last for 18 months and they do produce a lot of heat, so keep this in mind – you will need to use an auxiliary fan or an aquarium chiller with this type of lighting. Now that you understand the basics about aquarium lighting for planted tanks you should be equipped to select the right lighting system for your own tank. Just keep in mind the recommendations for how much lighting live plants need and choose your lighting system accordingly.

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Thanks to a rising cost of living, more people are surrendering their pets to animal shelters or abandoning them on the street. According to Shelter Animals Count, the end of 2023 saw a whopping 250,000 more pets in shelters compared to a year prior. They’ve even seen a rise in the number of purebred dogs and puppies who entered shelters, and there aren’t enough animals being adopted.  Overcrowded Shelters Around the U.S.The stats say it all, and this heartbreaking problem is found all over the United States. For example, compared to 2022, Animal Care Centers of NYC saw the number of abandoned dogs they took in go up 41%, and they’d run out of space as of the start of 2024. Tragically, the shelter also euthanized a higher number of dogs (2% more) in 2023 compared to the previous year.     Animal shelters in Kentucky, such as Franklin County Humane Society, are also struggling to keep up as they deal with more surrenders and strays. The state’s shelters are full, and they’re having a hard time because so many people are giving up their pets as a result of rising costs.The Nevada Humane Society is yet another example of a shelter that has seen a rise in pet surrenders because people are finding it harder to afford their animals or they’re finding it difficult to locate housing that will let them keep their pets. In 2023, the shelter saw a 65% increase in the number of dogs that were surrendered to them.Financial Hardship and Housing Issues Are Driving ForcesWhy are so many people giving up their pets? Financial hardship and difficulty finding places to live that are affordable and accept pets are a couple of the big reasons. Many people struggle with the rising cost of living not only for themselves but also for their pets, as everything from pet food and supplies to veterinary care has gotten more expensive.  Shelters across the United States are doing what they can to encourage people to adopt and prevent people from surrendering their pets. For example, Animal Care Centers of NYC offered pet parents help in the form of training assistance, free food, and temporary boarding, and those efforts worked to avoid nearly 3,000 surrenders in 2023.  There Are Ways You Can HelpYou can do your part to support animal shelters and pet parents that are struggling. In addition to monetary donations, you can donate pet food. Or, you can offer to foster one or more animals who are currently waiting for their forever homes. And you can adopt a pet in need of a home—you might even find shelters in your area that have discounted adoption fees as a means to help people afford their new best friend.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

New Study Reveals More About How Cats Purr

Pet parents love hearing their cats purr while in a relaxed and blissful state, and it’s believed that a kitty’s purr could be healing, too. But, no matter how long you’ve shared your home with felines, you might still wonder how your furry friend is able to make such a unique sound. New research now sheds some more light on how cats purr, so people can learn even more about their feline companions.

What to Know When Traveling Across the US/Canada Border with Your Pet

International travel with your best friend by your side can be an exciting adventure, but navigating the rules and regulations for crossing the border can feel daunting.Whether you’re heading to Canada for a pet-friendly weekend getaway or attending a Canadian pet show or expo, ensuring that you meet all the needs for crossing the border with your furry friend will set you up for a smooth journey.Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about traveling with your pet across the US/Canada border.In this guide, we’ll cover essential documentation, tips to set yourself up for a stress-free crossing and answer some of the most common questions about pet-friendly international travel.Can You Drive Across the Canadian Border with a Dog (or Cat)?If your next pet-friendly road trip will take you across the border into Canada, you’re in luck. Pet parents can drive from the United States to Canada with the whole family, including their furry family members, if they have the necessary paperwork.Entering Canada may be more complicated if your dog is coming from any country other than the United States. This is due to the concern of rabies, which causes some countries to face restrictions. If your dog has recently been to another country, it is recommended that you look further into the requirements for traveling from that area or ask your veterinarian.What Do I Need to Cross the US Border into Canada with My Dog?When traveling to Canada with your dog, the documentation required will depend on their age.If your dog is 3 months old or older, you must provide a rabies vaccination certificate to cross the border. This document must be issued by a licensed veterinarian and show that your dog received a rabies vaccine within 3 years of the date you are crossing.The rabies vaccination certificate must include the following: Your name and address A description of your dog (breed, sex, age, color, markings, etc.)Date of rabies vaccination Vaccine product informationVaccination expiry date Name, address, license number, and signature of the veterinarian who administered the vaccinePuppies under 3 months of age are not required to provide proof of a rabies vaccine. However, border security may ask for proof of your dog’s age.Are the Rules Different for Cats or Other Pets?All cats over the age of 3 months must be accompanied by a rabies vaccination certificate showing that the vaccine was administered within 3 years of the date of travel. Kittens under 3 months old are exempt from this requirement.The requirements for ferrets to cross the border are similar. However, the rabies vaccination certificate must show that the vaccine was administered within 12 months of the travel date.Any pet parents traveling with a bird must complete a “ Veterinary Health Certificate for Export of Pet Birds from the United States of America to Canada.” This form details important information for your upcoming travel, including the number of birds you can travel with, depending on their species.Do you have a pet that we haven’t addressed? More information can be found on the Canadian Food Inspection Agency website.

Hundreds of Cats and Dogs Saved from an Animal Testing Laboratory

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Once-Abused Dog Celebrates First Christmas With Vet Who Saved Him

A puppy who survived a terrible beating has celebrated his ‘first proper’ Christmas with a veterinarian nurse who provided a loving furever home for him.A whippet named Terry was only 12 weeks old when he was viciously attacked by his owner and left with severe trauma injuries after he urinated inside. The injured pup was taken to the Hull PDSA Animal Hospital in East Yorks, England, where he was treated by the veterinary nurse Rachel Coombes. During the initial exam, the hospital’s staff discovered that Terry had a bruised eye and lips. The pup was also missing three of his upper incisors, and another tooth was broken.For nurse Coombes, this was love at first sight! She told her colleagues that if Terry survived, she would adopt him, and that’s exactly what she did.Although Terry celebrated Christmas with Rachel and her son Stanley last year, this year was their ‘first proper’ Christmas together since Terry is now fully settled in with the family.“I just felt a connection as soon as he was brought in as he was in such a state we actually thought initially that he hadn’t made it,” said nurse Rachel according to Talker. “Then when we spotted gentle breathing I did say ‘if he survives this I’m going to give him home’ which is exactly what I did.”From that moment on, Terry’s life changed completely! “He hasn’t looked back since - he loves life and is having the best of life right now.” According to his new owner, Terry likes to run around the garden and enjoys going to the beach. The pooch has also formed a strong bond with Rachel’s son, Stanley, and is always by his side. “Last year, we got him around Christmas, but it was such a hectic time for him, and he was learning to settle then.” But this year, the family planned a festive celebration for Terry and did everything to make him feel special during the holiday season. Due to the suspicious nature of Terry’s injuries, RSPCA Inspector Laura Barber was asked to investigate. The inspector said that despite the severity of his injuries and his overall state, Terry had put his head on her and was so trusting. “He was in such a sad state and was really quiet and withdrawn when he was with people. He was so lovable, and it is great to see he has a home he deserves with such a lovely family.”“I know Terry will have the best first proper Christmas with his lovely new family and one he thoroughly deserves,” the inspector added. Terry’s extensive injuries were enough to build a case against his former owner. After appearing in court and admitting to causing unnecessary suffering to a dog, the person was handed a five-year ban on keeping animals. Emily Lomas, an animal care assistant at RSPCA’s Hull branch, said she was thrilled when she learned that Rachel had adopted Terry. “He was very traumatized and overwhelmed when he came to us, we had to really show him there was nothing to be scared of and that he was now safe. We took him to the socialization room, and I remember him falling asleep on my legs,” said Lomas.“We were all thrilled when he was adopted and knew he was going to a special home,” she added.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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What is Red Light Therapy for Dogs?

When your dog gets injured or is recovering from a routine surgery, it can be difficult to keep them comfy and to help heal their injuries faster at the same time. However, innovative red light therapy for dogs proved to be a safe and efficient treatment for a variety of ailments, from skin inflammation to wound healing, and much, much more.Red light therapy is also known as photobiomodulation therapy, and it involves the use of red or near-infrared light to stimulate healing and reduce inflammation. The reason for its effectiveness is the specific wavelengths that are absorbed by the mitochondria in cells, which are considered the cell’s powerhouse. As the mitochondria absorb the “red light”, the absorption stimulates the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is popularly called the “energy currency of cells”. The entire process then increases blood flow to the treated area, stimulating faster healing, and pain relief. What’s so great about red light therapy is that it is not invasive, and all that is needed is a specialized device that emits specific wavelengths of light.Red light therapy treatment sessions usually last from a few minutes to around 20 minutes, depending on the condition being treated and the specific device used. The frequency of sessions may vary, with some dogs benefiting from daily treatments initially, followed by less frequent “maintenance” sessions. Of course, your veterinarian can advise you on the appropriate treatment procedure for your dog's needs – if you’re unsure if red light therapy is the right choice for your dog, be sure to consult an expert before taking any steps.Of course, while you shouldn’t do anything without your vet’s approval, a great thing about this treatment is that it is entirely safe. When used appropriately, it has no risks for your dog. The secret is in the light energy that does not generate heat at all, eliminating any risk of burning or tissue damage. Naturally, it goes without saying that you should closely follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for the specific device you are using. 

Scientists Finally Identify Mystery Dog Illness Sweeping America

If you are a dog owner in the United States, you have likely already seen the news reports about the mystery illness responsible for the deaths of several dogs, prompting veterinary professionals to caution pet parents about taking their pets out to public spaces. But we may finally be able to spot the light at the end of the tunnel… Dr. David Needle, pathology section chief at the College of Life Sciences and Agriculture at the University of New Hampshire, reported that scientists have finally identified the cause of the illness. While this doesn’t mean that life for our dogs can return to normal immediately, it does mean that they are one step closer to finding a cure and moving past this nightmare. The research article has yet to be published, but the team is sharing their initial findings to provide hope for pet parents and the veterinary community. The pathogen responsible for the mystery respiratory illness is described as “a funky bacterium.” “It’s smaller than a normal bacterium in its size and in the size of its genome,” explained Needle. “Long story short, it’s a weird bacterium that can be tough to find and sequence.” Searching for the cause of this illness wasn’t easy for researchers. Initially, there were no known bacterial, viral, or fungal pathogens, meaning they were searching blind. However, after testing 30 samples from New Hampshire, genetic material from an atypical bacterial species was discovered. The next step in understanding the cause of the illness and working towards a cure (and possible preventative) is to compare these findings to samples from dogs in other states to verify that it is, in fact, the same pathogen in all reported instances. States with possible cases of the disease include: CaliforniaColoradoFlorida Georgia IdahoIllinois IndianaMarylandMassachusettsNew HampshireOregonPennsylvania Rhode IslandVermontWashingtonOne challenge faced by veterinarians is the fact there is no test to confirm that all reported cases are, in fact, the same illness. What Are the Warning Signs?Common symptoms resemble respiratory infections like canine influenza and kennel cough, conditions usually seen in higher numbers at this time of year. Luckily for the human members of our family, there are currently no reports of the illness being transferred to humans. Veterinarians recommend watching out for the following symptoms: Coughing or sneezing WheezingDifficulty breathingNasal or eye dischargeDehydration Loss of appetite Weight loss FeverLethargyHow Can You Keep Your Dog Safe? Until a cure has been identified, dog parents are encouraged to focus on preventative measures. Ensure your dog’s vaccinations are current, protecting them against known respiratory problems. Avoid public spaces like dog parks, doggy daycare, and grooming establishments where dogs may be exposed to the illness. If you must go to a public space, steer clear of shared food and water dishes. Your dog will be just as happy to spend this time playing with you as they would with another dog!If you notice any signs of respiratory trouble or illness, don’t panic. Contact your veterinarian to share your concerns and make an appointment.

Amazing Wiener Dog Gives Birth to a Record Breaking Puppy Litter

Puppy litters can certainly be large, but in the case of this brave Wiener dog mom, everyone was taken by surprise! This extraordinary female dachshund brought to the world a litter of no less than 11 puppies – there is definitely potential for a world record here. Winnie, a three-year-old female dachshund, was seemingly a normal pregnant dog, and nobody expected her litter to be this big. Normally, this breed of dog delivers between one and six puppies, but Winnie delivered nearly double that number in September.

Is Your Cat Itchy? Causes and Treatments for Itching in Cats

Itching, or pruritis, in cats has various causes, so it’s a symptom of multiple problems. Sure, a cat will have an itch they need to scratch every now and then, just like people do. But if you see your cat scratching more than usual, or they’re scratching, licking, or biting themselves so much that they’re losing fur and causing cuts and scabs on their skin, there may be an underlying issue that should be addressed.Whether your cat is scratching at one area or they’re itchy all over, don’t ignore this problem. Read on to learn about some of the causes of itchiness in cats, along with some of the things you can do to provide relief. Remember, it’s always best to consult a veterinarian about your cat’s symptoms so you can give your pet the right treatment.Reasons Why Your Cat Is ItchyHere are some of the conditions that can cause a cat to feel itchy:AllergiesA lot of things can cause an allergic reaction in cats that leads to itchy skin. For example, if your cat is allergic to an ingredient in their food, such as a particular protein, their allergy might manifest as itchiness. As another example, your cat might be allergic to something in the environment, such as dust in the house or pollen that blows in through a window. And some cats have contact allergies to products, from litter to plastic or fabric, that can cause a reaction. The goal is to find the allergen and remove it from your cat’s environment as best as possible. In the case of a food allergy, using food trials with the guidance of your vet can help you figure out what’s causing the reaction so you can start giving your cat food that’s appropriate for them. ParasitesBites from insects and parasites can cause your cat to feel itchy. Fleas and mites are a couple examples. And, yes, indoor cats can get fleas, as they could be brought in from outside and find their way to your feline.When it comes to mites, such as ear mites or mange, your veterinarian can prescribe treatments after performing some tests for an accurate diagnosis.For flea allergy dermatitis caused by flea bites, it’s a matter of eliminating the flea infestation and preventing future infestations. You can use over-the-counter products, such as Frontline Plus for Cats, which is a topical treatment you apply between your cat’s shoulders (where they won’t be able to lick it off). It kills flea eggs, flea larvae, and adult fleas, as well as ticks and chewing lice, and each dose works for a month. But you also need to thoroughly clean your home and your pet’s things to be sure you eliminate fleas in the environment.

With Just a Sniff, Dogs May be Able to Curtail PTSD Episodes

Halifax's Dalhousie University finds dogs can identify the adrenaline hormone through an individual's breath.

This Revolutionary Drug Could Help Extend the Lifespan of Dogs

In a groundbreaking trial that is set to launch in the United States, around 1,000 elderly dogs will be given a pill – in the form of a sweet treat – in the hope that their lives will be extended because of it. Behind this innovative work stands Loyal, a startup company based in Silicon Valley. They are currently gathering a number of senior dogs through a well-developed network of veterinary practices in all US states. The tests are set to launch before the end of 2023, after four years of complex studies.In this case, all dogs must be over 10 years old in order to be included in the study. The study itself is set to be a “randomized double-blind placebo trial”. The director of veterinary medicine at Loyal, the company behind this trial, Dr. Brennen McKenzie, said for  Telegraph that this will “probably be the largest clinical trial in veterinary medical history”.“We’re hoping to show that we can both increase the length of life and, more importantly, the length of time these dogs live healthy and happy and functional lives,” McKenzie states. “We’re looking at the length of time that dogs live on the drug and the placebo, hoping to show that we can extend their lifespan and also hoping to show that they develop less disease.”What the study will potentially show is that dogs who receive the drug will live one year longer - on average compared to those who are taking the “placebo” drug. Still, the length of life gained is only one aspect, Dr McKenzie said at the North American Veterinary Community’s Veterinary Innovation Summit in Kansas City. McKenzie also added that increasing health was their number one priority.“We think of lifespan as the amount of time that you live but healthspan is the amount of time that you have good health, good function, good quality of life,” Dr McKenzie said. “That’s clearly the most important thing”.All of this sounds quite “larger than life”, no pun intended. And, of course, with such advanced propositions, the trial drug and its contents are a closely guarded secret, especially due to commercial reasons. This will be the situation until the trial of the drug is finished. And if the drug happens to be as efficient as hoped, Loyal plans to place it on the market immediately, offering an affordable daily supplement that can extend the lives of dogs. “If we get through this four-year trial and we achieve our endpoints, the FDA will license us to sell this as a prescription medication and it will be the first medication ever to extend lifespan in any species,” Dr McKenzie said. “We are absolutely interested in a product that is accessible to the majority of pet owners.”It is worth noting that the drug in question was already proven to be safe for consumption, and there is a low risk of this potential supplement causing any unwanted side effects. Loyal is a company that has two other products in the works, and they are also scheduled to undergo extensive tests. However, work is not yet finished, and one of the two is expected to go on trial around 2026. 

Signs a Dog Is in Pain

Don’t you wish your dog could talk to tell you how he feels? After all, it can be tough to figure out if your pet is experiencing discomfort. But if you learn more about your canine companion’s body language, you’ll be able to pick up on the signs your dog is in pain. Below are some of the things to watch out for.

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